Hauwa Hamza

• Year of study: Third year (in 2022/23)
• Length of course: Three years

Your university/career journey

Why did you decide to study at the University of Northampton?

The University of Northampton was always going to be my first choice. I’d researched the course and what the University had to offer. The facilities are incredible, it’s within a short distance to the teaching hospital and I am local to Northampton.

What are your career goals/aspirations?

I aspire to be a global midwife. I want to use the skills and experience I’ve gained at the University of Northampton to achieve my long-term goals. I embarked on this course with the sole intention of learning how to advocate for and provide the best quality care to women when they are at their most vulnerable. Ten years from now, I hope to contribute to the betterment of global maternity care provision, particularly in Nigeria, where women die needlessly on a daily basis in the antenatal, intrapartum and postnatal period.

How do you think your studies will help your career or personal development when you graduate?

My time and studies at the University have equipped me with a sound knowledge base and solid clinical skills, as well as wider transferrable skills. My time here has also enhanced my self-awareness and confidence in my practice.

Which, if any, skills and knowledge/understanding gained on your degree do you feel will be most useful in your future career?

I’ve developed interpersonal skills and resilience and have improved my communication skills vastly as I’ve progressed through this course. I’ve worked alongside and been mentored by many incredibly skilled and knowledgeable midwives and this has put me in good standing to become the best midwife I can be. I’ve also learned the all-important art of midwifery, and the importance of keeping the woman at the core of care provision.

Your Placement

Have you completed a placement offered as part of your course?

I’ve completed a placement in a maternity unit as well as in the community. I’ve also had the opportunity to undertake non-maternity placements – gynaecology, special care baby unit and critical care. I’ve worked alongside nurses, midwives, doctors, support workers and a whole range of other hospital staff, observing and providing care, as well as assuming a support role where appropriate.

Please describe how your placement benefitted you.

Whilst I’ve had an incredible journey thus far, some placements have been challenging and taken me out of my comfort zone. However, it’s been interesting to observe the role of the wider multidisciplinary team and gain insight into the work of various healthcare professionals. My incredible mentors have built my confidence and I’m in awe of their strength, resilience and delivery of such good care with so much compassion.

What employability skills did you develop during your placement?

I’ve vastly improved my people skills and learned how to be a team player. I’m now able to listen more effectively and communicate with the multidisciplinary team and I’ve had opportunities to showcase my pragmatism and leadership skills. I’ve improved my time management and organisational skills and have been able to apply my IT skills from my previous degree within the clinical setting. My placements have also highlighted my determination to give my best at all times.

How do you think the placements will help you with gaining employment after graduating?

Placements have already helped me vastly, as I’ve been able to demonstrate my commitment, my flexibility and my willingness to take on new challenges. I’ve been offered a job at my placement host site and I’m very much looking forward to starting my new role once I qualify.

Do you have any tips on applying for or getting the most benefit from your placement?

Just be organised! It’s also important to demonstrate flexibility and a willingness to learn and take on new challenges.

What advice would you give a student about to begin a placement?

Have an open mind. I cannot emphasise this enough!

Your advice

In one sentence, what advice would you give to undergraduates interested in this career path or anything you wish you had known earlier?

Come with an open mind, come prepared, be organised and be ready to be amazed.

In ten words, or less how would you summarise your UON experience?

A positive experience, which has proved to be life-changing!